Best Espresso Machine Reviews

Espresso requires high temperatures and pressure in order to create its unique flavor. If you want to get the most out of it, the best espresso machine is crucial.

This Breville model is equipped with the same ThermoJet thermocoil found in commercial machines that are used by professionals. It's warm in three seconds, meaning you can start brewing espresso right away.

1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus

This reviewer has received promotional incentives or sweepstakes entries.

If you're looking for a quick cup of coffee and don't mind not having the milk-steaming capabilities of a traditional espresso machine, the Nespresso Vertuo Plus is a fantastic option. This compact machine has a minimalist design and can easily be tucked away on the counter (the water tank that comes with it can be adjusted to dimensions, meaning you don't need to leave the machine unattended).

It is made using an extraction method called "Centrifusion." The capsules are spun at over 7700 rpm in order to extract flavor without overheating the grounds. This also creates a thick, dense crema.

The machine is easy to use, with only one button. The machine recognizes the specific blend of each capsule through the barcode of each capsule, and then adjusts all of its brewing parameters accordingly. This is a great choice for those with plenty of time and want to begin the day with a beautiful cup of coffee. However, you're restricted to using Nespresso pods--which aren't cheap espresso machine--and it isn't the most durable one.

2. Rancilio Silvia

The Rancilio Silvia is a great espresso machine for those who are just starting out. It is constructed from commercial-grade components and has a large market for second-hand coffee that speaks to its durability. The Silvia isn't the ideal machine for professionals. If you're looking to make coffee of cafe-quality then a larger boiler is the best choice. However, the Silvia is an excellent place to start.

The portafilter of this machine is identical as the one used in cafes. This makes it much easier to follow commercial machine recipes. The grouphead, which is large at 58mm and thermally stable, is commercial-grade. The steam wand, too, is a commercial-grade model that's easy to use.

It has some limitations, like the single boiler and basic rocker switch that turns it on and off. It's not the ideal choice for those seeking programmable features like pre-infusion or customizable timed shots. But it's still able to perform quite well for the money. It comes with a premium black wood-handled tamper that is a great addition.

3. Philips 3200 Series

This fully automatic espresso machine from Philips is a good choice for those looking to brew cafe-quality drinks at home. It comes with several impressive features and is easy to use. It's also fairly affordable.

It offers a wide range of drinks that can be made with just a touch. These include the classics like espresso, Americano, latte macchiato and cappuccino. The machine also has the ability to dispense hot drinking water. The Philips 3200 Series also is relatively simple to clean.

While some may be apprehensive about the machine's plastic construction, it shouldn’t be a cause for concern. Most customers are happy with the durability and quality of the plastic.

The Philips 3200 Series espresso machine is a simple method to make your favorite milk-based coffee espresso machines drinks. It's a great option for those who want to save money by avoiding coffee for espresso machine shop trips. It's also simple to use and requires no maintenance. If you're looking to get the most rich espresso, there are better options available. You can also buy an option which does not have the LatteGo system for a lesser cost.

4. Gaggia Classic Pro

Gaggia Classic Pro is an entry level espresso maker built to last. It builds on the decades old reputation of the Classic model. It comes with the Classic model, with few improvements like frames that let you know how much water remains in the machine, rocker switches, and temperature-ready lights. The Classic Pro uses the same commercial-style portafilter and brew group that Gaggia uses for their professional coffee machines. It also comes with an all-three-way solenoid that eliminates any steam or water that remains after making. It also has a commercial-style steam wand, which is significant improvement over the panarello wands on most lesser machines that do little more than inject air to boost foam production from undersized boilers.

While it may not look as sleek or contemporary as the other models The Classic Pro's stainless steel body is a welcome addition of durability over a lot of its plastic counterparts. It also does not have unnecessary features such as PID temperature control as well as fancy volumetric jiggery pokes that can make a perfect shot a challenge for new baristas.

5. ECM Casa V

ECM (sister company of Profitec, another well-known high-end espresso maker barista maker (click for info)) isn't known for its low-cost machines, however they do make one in the Casa V. It's a single boiler machine that's a lot less expensive than the Rancilio Silvia or Gaggia Classic Pro, but it looks and functions like a more expensive machine. The articulating steam wand packs a lot of power, and the stainless steel, mirror-finished housing is a great conversation piece.

The heating element with 1200 watts will heat the 0.4 milliliter eco brass boiler quickly, getting it up to brew temperatures in 5 to 7 minutes and ready to steam in just 30 seconds. The brew gauge is a great addition as it allows you to monitor and adjust the pressure of your pump.

ECM has packed high-quality espresso machine technology into the form of a compact unit that is easy to incorporate into any kitchen. The Casa V will also look fantastic in any design that has a coffee for espresso machine theme. It's designed in the same manner as traditional commercial espresso machines have been built for a long time, with easily accessible parts that even a mechanically inclined homeowner can be comfortable with repairing or maintaining.